LEWISTON – Maine veterans hoping for a first-time property tax exemption have until April 1 to apply.

Maine law exempts veterans who served during certain times from a portion of their property taxes.

To qualify, they need to have been in active service with a branch of the armed forces and be retired, separated or honorably discharged.

They need to be at least 62 years old by April 1, or be receiving government compensation for total disability connected to their service.

They also must have served during the following periods:

• World War I – April 6, 1917, to Nov. 11, 1918 (or March 31, 1920 in Russia);

• World War II – Dec. 7, 1941, to Dec. 31, 1946;

• Korean Campaign – June 27, 1950, to Jan. 31, 1955;

• Vietnam War – Feb. 28, 1961, to May 7, 1975;

• Persian Gulf War – Aug. 2, 1990, to April 6, 1991;

• Aug. 24, 1982, to July 31, 1984;

• Dec. 20, 1989, to Jan. 31, 1990.

The state also allows exemptions for recipients of the Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal and for members of the American Merchant Marine between Dec. 7, 1941, and Aug. 15, 1945.

Widows of veterans who have not remarried can also claim the exemption.

For more information, contact the local assessors office. In Lewiston, that number is 784-2951, extension 232.